Ivanna Eudora Kean High School Graduates 208

ST. THOMAS — Graduating from High School is often considered a momentous occasion by many; and for the family, guardians, well-wishers, faculty and staff, and most notably the 208 graduates of the Ivanna Eudora Kean High School (I.E.K.H.S), that jubilant occasion was June 17, 2017.

Majestically adorned in champagne gowns, burgundy sashes, and cords of various colors, the graduates sat proudly in the school’s Digma Marie Wheatley Gymnasium—beaming—as Principal Stefan Jürgen reminisced with his students, the journey that had brought them to this moment.

Mr. Jürgen repeatedly lauded the graduates with praises, acknowledging that despite the length and difficulty of the journey, he was proud to see the graduates sitting before him—a testament of their success.  Mr. Jürgen also described the graduates as the most affectionate class he had ever encountered, saying the class of 2017 would be his most memorable one yet. To the graduates he said, “I speak life and prosperity over every single one of you and your lives.”

He continued by highlighting the various achievements of the graduates, noting they were not only receiving a high school diploma, but various career and technical education certificates. Some of those certificates being in business/ finance, cosmetology, and culinary arts. Mr. Jürgen also reminded them that their hard work had paid off, because the class had managed to accumulate over $5 million in scholarships and other awards.

Commencement speaker Samuel Rey, I.E.K.H.S Class of 1977, echoed the sentiments of Principle Jürgen, and commended him for a job well done in motivating and guiding those in his care. To the graduates, Mr. Rey offered advice on a successful life, telling them that although they may face many obstacles in life, they should always keep pushing forward.

The 2017 graduating class was an equally divided number of males and females, however, one diploma was being awarded posthumously. Amidst the joy and boisterous crowd, the family of 18 year old Akil Greig Jr.—who passed away earlier this year—held up large poster board cut outs of Greig in his cap and gown. Although they attended the ceremony, the family chose to receive the diploma in a private ceremony. Several speakers throughout the ceremony, including the valedictorian and the salutatorian, called for a moment of silence to honor Greig.

As they go off to college, the military, and the workforce, the graduating class was reminded that although this was a momentous occasion, it was not the final chapter of their lives.  They were encouraged to keep the driving force that brought them to that moment in life.

Valedictorian: Keari K. Parris

Salutatorian: Quiannah A. Potter

Special Awards:  Community Service Award to K’Jean Williams for 3,153 hours.

Student of the Year Award (Sponsered by the I.E.K.H.S Reunion Class of 1987): Quiannah A. Potter.

Principal’s award: Deiondra Chalwell.

Thus far, I.E.K.H.S is the first public high school in the territory to hold its graduation ceremonies. They will be followed by Charlotte Amalie High School, today, at University of the Virgin Islands’ Sports and Fitness Center.